Tūhoe Putaiao Trust knows education and training are key to community-led employment and local business development.

The Trust is developing a native plant nursery that is expected to employ local people and train others in preparation for work in the rapidly growing horticultural industry.

The nursery will utilise the natural and human resources of the Ruatoki community.

With support from Te Puni Kōkiri, Tūhoe Putaiao Trust has developed a practical ‘hands-on’ training manual to create training and employment opportunities for rangatahi in native plant management.

“This [project] enables us to continue with our restoration activities,” says Paki Nikora, Operations Manager. “The nursery also fulfils our goals of providing training and creating employment opportunities for our rangatahi. Meaningful employment is known to lift peoples’ self-esteem and that of their whānau, th Trust believes it will also have positive impacts on the community itself.”